Bill > SB0194

This bill establishes new standards for drawing legislative and congressional districts in Indiana, effective July 1, 2026, requiring that initial proposed plans for both state legislative districts (100 for the House, 50 for the Senate) and congressional districts must adhere to these standards. These standards mandate that districts be based on population, with state legislative districts having a population deviation of no more than 2% from the "ideal district population" (the total state population divided by the number of districts), and congressional districts being as equal in population as practicable. Districts must also be contiguous, compact, and not divide precinct boundaries. Furthermore, the bill aims to minimize the division of political subdivisions like cities and counties, and to preserve existing communities of interest where possible, while also considering the impact on minority groups as required by the federal Voting Rights Act. Importantly, the residential addresses of incumbent legislators or representatives cannot be considered when drawing these districts. While initial plans must meet these standards, the General Assembly can make modifications during the legislative process, provided the reasons for any deviations are publicly explained and documented. The bill also clarifies that districts can only be established or modified during the regular legislative session immediately following the federal decennial census, unless a court invalidates a district, in which case a redistricting commission will be established to address the issue.

Government Affairs

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2026/bills/senate/194/details